Former Steelers linebacker to headline Somerset rally

There will be at least one Super Bowl ring in the crowd as Somerset County cheers for the Steelers to bring back a seventh Lombardi Trophy.

Former All-Pro and Super Bowl winning linebacker Robin Cole will be the special celebrity guest at the Somerset Chamber of Commerce Steelers Pep Rally, set for 4 to 7 p.m. Friday at the Quality Inn in Somerset.

Drs. William Greer and David Girdany of Somerset Orthopaedics are sponsoring Cole’s appearance and also 100 miniature footballs, which will be signed by Cole and given out during the event.

“Sports medicine is the primary service line for Drs. Greer and Girdany,” said Michele Beener of Somerset Hospital corporate communications. “They really enjoy serving the student population in the area and it’s a nice way to give back to the community.”

Chamber Executive Director Ron Aldom said he is excited Cole will be joining the festivities and having an autograph session.

The event will feature a raffle for a Lawrence Timmons autographed NFL helmet and a Ben Roethlisberger autographed framed portrait.

There will be prizes for the best Steeler fan outfit, best Troy Polamalu look-a-like, youngest fan, oldest fan, best Myron Cope imitation and best Brett Keisel “Fear the Beard” look-a-like. Other contests and prizes are planned.

“The more sponsors that come on, the more prizes we’ll do,” Aldom said.

The Salvation Army is providing children’s face painting and a “Build Your Own Steeler Poster” area. Tailgate food is being providing by Oakhurst Tea Room and Coors Light drink specials are being provided by Coors Brewing Co.

“We’re getting a lot of response from people saying they are coming,” Aldom said. “Generally the local feedback is they’re looking forward to it.”